PARIS APPLAUDS EXCELLENCE

Arts–Sciences–Literature Academy Awards, 2026

Elegance, prestige, and international recognition at a gala evening held in the sumptuous Salon Opéra of the renowned InterContinental Paris Le Grand hotel.

Paris has once again confirmed its status as the capital of major international cultural gatherings. The sumptuous Salon Opéra at the InterContinental Paris Le Grand hotel hosted the annual ceremony of the Arts–Sciences–Literature Academy—a long-standing tradition dedicated to individuals who have distinguished themselves throughout the year through exceptional contributions to the fields of art, science, and literature.

The event brought together over 700 guests, including prominent figures from the cultural and scientific spheres, representatives of the artistic and literary communities, and numerous visitors from abroad—all connected through international projects, collaborations, and initiatives. The elegance of the formal attire, the refined style, and the solemn atmosphere perfectly complemented the impressive setting of an evening where excellence was celebrated with distinction and respect.

The centerpiece of the ceremony was the presentation of 14 diplomas, each accompanied by a gold medal, awarded to distinguished individuals in the fields of art, science, and literature from France, Spain, Romania, Belgium, Japan, Italy, Canada, and Switzerland. Each laureate was honored in a formal setting, and the playing of the national anthem of their respective country added a unique dimension to the ceremony, transforming individual recognition into a gesture of respect for the identity and values ​​of each nation. For me, one of the most moving moments of the evening was when the strains of the Romanian National Anthem resonated within the impressive Opéra hall. It was a moment of profound emotion and justified pride, set in an iconic Parisian venue where Romania took its place among nations whose distinguished individuals were being honored for their achievements.

The presence of the Academy’s leadership, alongside ten ambassadors, underscored the diplomatic and cultural significance of the event. Beyond the glamour of a gala evening, the occasion demonstrated that art, science, and literature remain genuine bridges between countries and cultures—capable of bringing people and communities closer together through shared values.

An absence that raises questions

Against this backdrop of high cultural standing and international visibility, I could not help but notice the absence of representatives from the Romanian Embassy. At a time when a Romanian was being honored at a ceremony of such magnitude—with our national anthem echoing in one of Paris’s most elegant venues—the presence of Romanian diplomatic representation would have been a natural gesture of support and appreciation.

This is not merely about attending a festive event; it is about how state institutions choose to stand by those Romanians who, through their work, contribute to the country’s cultural prestige abroad. Such a ceremony offered an opportunity for engagement, dialogue, and the promotion of Romanian culture within an elite international setting. The evening in Paris remained, without a doubt, a celebration of excellence, elegance, and the recognition of merit. Yet, it also offered an occasion for reflection: when Romanian culture is honored in the world’s great capitals, how close are our own institutions to those who represent it?

Paris provided the setting, the Academy bestowed the honors, and the Romanian national anthem resounded solemnly within the Salon Opéra—a moment of national pride that, perhaps, also warranted the presence of those tasked with representing Romania.

Dorel Cosma